Living with Anxiety

Anxiety is a completely human instinct in response to stressors – these may be events, relationships or situations. Anxiety can be a little moment of fear, or it can be ongoing panic or feeling of being totally overwhelmed. A little anxiety or stress can be a healthy response to a situation if it gives a boost to act. Unfortunately longer term anxiety can do the opposite, interfering with people’s ability to have happy and healthy lives.

Do I have anxiety?
Anxiety can have both physical and emotional symptoms. The physical signs of anxiety can be quicker and more shallow breathing, shaking or trembling, sweat, a quickening heart rate and stomach churning (butterflies). These symptoms can greatly differ depending on the severity of the anxiety. Some emotional responses to anxiety can be confusion or anger, becoming agitated or easily irritated. People with anxiety may wish to avoid certain situations.

Sorts of anxiety
Anxiety is not experienced exactly the same by each person. Medical professionals divide types of anxiety dependant on reasons for the anxiety and other factors . Some anxieties are related to specific phobias or social phobia, whilst others are OCD and post traumatic stress disorder. There are also general anxiety disorders. Different types of anxieties need different types of treatments.

How to deal with anxiety
There are a number of ways to treat anxiety and these are often combined for the most successful results. A key part of treatment is psychological treatment – through therapy or counselling. This is also known as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT). This type of therapy involves the combination of dealing with a persons emotions and thoughts when stimulated by stressors and therapeutic change in behaviour. This means changing the way anxiety is dealt with and felt by the individual. Lifestyle changes such as exercise, mediation or change in diet can all be used to help improve anxiety.

Moving forward with anxiety
A key stage in dealing and living with anxiety is facing the types of situations or events that can create anxiety. These situations are often avoided by someone with anxiety, but through treatment can be approached in a different way. A psychologist can help you with mindfulness, breathing and thought controlling techniques to help these situations become less problematic.

Anxiety is a real problem that many people silently suffer with. Thankfully it is possible to seek professional help that can give you both support and understanding. A psychologist can offer strategies to help you deal with anxiety and any other associated problems.

When making your decision on where to get proper counselling, go for Life Supports Counselling! Book an appointment today by calling 1300 735 030!